Therapists in Cumberland, MD

Photo of Donna L Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Donna L Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MAC, ADS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502
I am a clinical social worker who practices therapy in the area of dual diagnosis. I work with adult clients who have behavioral health or addictions issues, or both. I believe to feel better, we need to work on the WHOLE person not just a part. I worked for the Military for five years and I have background in trauma, PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injuries and many addiction issues.
I am a clinical social worker who practices therapy in the area of dual diagnosis. I work with adult clients who have behavioral health or addictions issues, or both. I believe to feel better, we need to work on the WHOLE person not just a part. I worked for the Military for five years and I have background in trauma, PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injuries and many addiction issues.
(301) 710-6784 View (301) 710-6784
Photo of Loretta Clarise Pettiford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Loretta Clarise Pettiford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, CP
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with sadness and emotional pain, help is available. I am a Clinical Social Worker and a Creative Arts therapist. I am a Certified Sand Tray therapist, and Psychodramatist. As a Clinician with the Department of Defense, I have treated all branches of the military and their family members for over 20 years, both in the states and overseas. I currently have a private practice in Washington D.C. and Maryland. I also provide Online Video Therapy, texting, and Skype. As your therapist, my role is to help you navigate through emotional pain while obtaining workable solutions.
If you are struggling with sadness and emotional pain, help is available. I am a Clinical Social Worker and a Creative Arts therapist. I am a Certified Sand Tray therapist, and Psychodramatist. As a Clinician with the Department of Defense, I have treated all branches of the military and their family members for over 20 years, both in the states and overseas. I currently have a private practice in Washington D.C. and Maryland. I also provide Online Video Therapy, texting, and Skype. As your therapist, my role is to help you navigate through emotional pain while obtaining workable solutions.
(301) 338-6067 View (301) 338-6067

Online Therapists

Photo of Stefanie Gilbert, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Stefanie Gilbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression, I help people to understand the origins and purpose of their symptoms and to replace self-harming behaviors with healthy, effective coping strategies.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.
Specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression, I help people to understand the origins and purpose of their symptoms and to replace self-harming behaviors with healthy, effective coping strategies.
I enjoy working with individuals who seek to live happier, healthier lives and recognize that change can only happen by trying something new. Each of us has the power to create better lives for ourselves simply by changing the way we relate to ourselves. Many people never learned as children how to cope with stress and negative emotion. But this is a skill that can be learned in adulthood and that can pave the way for greater happiness throughout our lives. The ultimate goal is to prioritize your well-being and care for yourself by noticing and responding to your thoughts and feelings with compassion and validation.
(240) 202-1838 View (240) 202-1838
Cathleen Horan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
I have twenty five years of experience providing psychotherapy for young adults and adults (18-90) as well as couples and families. I utilize CBT, ACT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, and other approaches to suit your needs. I specialize in treating substance use disorder, co-dependency, process addictions, eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, grief/loss, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I work from a strengths based perspective and help clients strengthen coping strategies and deveop new strategies to create and enhance the life you want to live.
I have twenty five years of experience providing psychotherapy for young adults and adults (18-90) as well as couples and families. I utilize CBT, ACT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, and other approaches to suit your needs. I specialize in treating substance use disorder, co-dependency, process addictions, eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, grief/loss, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I work from a strengths based perspective and help clients strengthen coping strategies and deveop new strategies to create and enhance the life you want to live.
(240) 474-9782 View (240) 474-9782
Photo of Classen-Miller and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Classen-Miller and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
(301) 918-5312 View (301) 918-5312
Photo of Ericka Leonard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Ericka Leonard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Now accepting clients for virtual services in MD, VA, DC and PA. I believe that compassion, authenticity, and empathy are the foundation of a strong and collaborative therapeutic relationship. My clinical focus and expertise lie in the areas of eating disorders and trauma. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches to help clients improve their relationships with food and their bodies. Additionally, I have extensive training and experience working with clients who have experienced trauma stemming from childhood abuse or domestic/IP violence.
Now accepting clients for virtual services in MD, VA, DC and PA. I believe that compassion, authenticity, and empathy are the foundation of a strong and collaborative therapeutic relationship. My clinical focus and expertise lie in the areas of eating disorders and trauma. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches to help clients improve their relationships with food and their bodies. Additionally, I have extensive training and experience working with clients who have experienced trauma stemming from childhood abuse or domestic/IP violence.
(443) 917-3605 View (443) 917-3605
Photo of Gertrud Irmgard Classen-Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Gertrud Irmgard Classen-Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
My areas of expertise include depression/anxiety/bipolar/psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse and family/couples/children issues.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE, Welcome to collaborative and solution based help to experience joy, success and purpose in your life. For over 25 years I have worked with adults, couples, families, adolescents and children in Maryland. My practice is culturally and ethnically diverse. I founded the group practice Classen-Miller & Associates which offers a full range of clinical approaches for all age groups with our licensed clinicians reflecting the full diversity of our community.
My areas of expertise include depression/anxiety/bipolar/psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse and family/couples/children issues.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE, Welcome to collaborative and solution based help to experience joy, success and purpose in your life. For over 25 years I have worked with adults, couples, families, adolescents and children in Maryland. My practice is culturally and ethnically diverse. I founded the group practice Classen-Miller & Associates which offers a full range of clinical approaches for all age groups with our licensed clinicians reflecting the full diversity of our community.
(301) 747-3565 View (301) 747-3565
Photo of Sari Meltzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Sari Meltzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
I offer services throughout DC, MD, and VA. I specialize in providing support to individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, and those who want to improve their relationship with food and their body. While challenges with food and body may be what brings a client to see me, I know that these struggles do not exist in a vacuum. This is why I take a holistic approach and support my clients in exploring and learning ways to cope with anxiety, depression, relational conflict, trauma symptoms and other life challenges. In addition to working with client's with eating disorders, I offer Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
I offer services throughout DC, MD, and VA. I specialize in providing support to individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, and those who want to improve their relationship with food and their body. While challenges with food and body may be what brings a client to see me, I know that these struggles do not exist in a vacuum. This is why I take a holistic approach and support my clients in exploring and learning ways to cope with anxiety, depression, relational conflict, trauma symptoms and other life challenges. In addition to working with client's with eating disorders, I offer Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
(202) 952-6235 View (202) 952-6235
Photo of Danice Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Danice Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Are you feeling worried all of the time?Do you feel sad, stuck, and unmotivated? Tired of repeating the cycle of unhealthy relationships? Have you told your trauma narrative countless times but still feel stuck? I work with adult survivors of childhood trauma. My areas of interest and experience includes mood disorders, eating disorders and body image issues. I emphasize with my clients that the goal isn’t to reach a certain number on the scale but to develop a healthy relationship with their body. I want to help my clients view their body as something to care for instead of something to avoid or punish.
Are you feeling worried all of the time?Do you feel sad, stuck, and unmotivated? Tired of repeating the cycle of unhealthy relationships? Have you told your trauma narrative countless times but still feel stuck? I work with adult survivors of childhood trauma. My areas of interest and experience includes mood disorders, eating disorders and body image issues. I emphasize with my clients that the goal isn’t to reach a certain number on the scale but to develop a healthy relationship with their body. I want to help my clients view their body as something to care for instead of something to avoid or punish.
(240) 624-2045 View (240) 624-2045
Sharon Frishett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I specialize in using evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) its variant for eating disorders (CBT-E), Exposure Therapy, Behavioral Activation, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), to design personalized treatment plans.
Welcome to my practice, dedicated to providing targeted psychotherapy for Eating and Mood Disorders, and cognitive remediation strategies aimed at improving memory and attentional difficulties.
I specialize in using evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) its variant for eating disorders (CBT-E), Exposure Therapy, Behavioral Activation, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), to design personalized treatment plans.
Welcome to my practice, dedicated to providing targeted psychotherapy for Eating and Mood Disorders, and cognitive remediation strategies aimed at improving memory and attentional difficulties.
(301) 288-1589 View (301) 288-1589
Photo of Amy Henry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Amy Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, eating disorders, and anxiety and mood disorders.
Licensed in MD, DC, VA, NJ. If you’re reading this, then you’ve already taken the first step toward healing. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, trauma, or other challenges, I can help you forge a path forward. I will work collaboratively with you to establish personalized therapy goals tailored to your specific needs. I will work diligently to foster an environment in which you feel safe, accepted, seen, heard, and never judged. In our work together, you can expect me to be compassionate, honest, and real; I will be patient and encourage you to confront the deeper, underlying issues.
I specialize in trauma, eating disorders, and anxiety and mood disorders.
Licensed in MD, DC, VA, NJ. If you’re reading this, then you’ve already taken the first step toward healing. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, trauma, or other challenges, I can help you forge a path forward. I will work collaboratively with you to establish personalized therapy goals tailored to your specific needs. I will work diligently to foster an environment in which you feel safe, accepted, seen, heard, and never judged. In our work together, you can expect me to be compassionate, honest, and real; I will be patient and encourage you to confront the deeper, underlying issues.
(410) 612-3808 View (410) 612-3808
Photo of Frederick Christian Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Frederick Christian Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, BCPCC
Verified Verified
Monrovia, MD 21770
We treat children, families, couples & individuals experiencing a wide variety of issues: anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, marital/ relationship problems, eating disorders, infidelity, and much more.
As Board Certified Professional Christian Counselors (BCPCC), we offer care that is distinctively Christian & clinically excellent. We have been extensively evaluated by the AACC & NACC in areas of personal integrity, Biblical principles, personal spiritual journey & walk with Jesus Christ, beliefs about the Bible, & clinical skills. We believe in bringing problems in to the light & applying biblical truth. We are encouragers: lending hope to the hopeless, prescribing interventions, teaching healthy coping skills, & challenging old ways of thinking. We believe therapy is the method, but that ONLY Jesus is the healer.
We treat children, families, couples & individuals experiencing a wide variety of issues: anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, marital/ relationship problems, eating disorders, infidelity, and much more.
As Board Certified Professional Christian Counselors (BCPCC), we offer care that is distinctively Christian & clinically excellent. We have been extensively evaluated by the AACC & NACC in areas of personal integrity, Biblical principles, personal spiritual journey & walk with Jesus Christ, beliefs about the Bible, & clinical skills. We believe in bringing problems in to the light & applying biblical truth. We are encouragers: lending hope to the hopeless, prescribing interventions, teaching healthy coping skills, & challenging old ways of thinking. We believe therapy is the method, but that ONLY Jesus is the healer.
(301) 945-8284 View (301) 945-8284
Photo of Jennifer Rollin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Jennifer Rollin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850  (Online Only)
I'm grateful to have helped many people to recover from eating disorders.
I love working with teens and adults who are are tired of feeling trapped by an eating disorder, exhausted from constantly thinking about food and their body, and hate what they see when they look in the mirror.
I'm grateful to have helped many people to recover from eating disorders.
I love working with teens and adults who are are tired of feeling trapped by an eating disorder, exhausted from constantly thinking about food and their body, and hate what they see when they look in the mirror.
(301) 945-7234 View (301) 945-7234
Photo of Beth Frederick, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Beth Frederick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Waitlist for new clients
I have practiced psychology for over 15 years and have worked in a variety of settings, including Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt, Johns Hopkins University, and Eating Recovery Center. I have a diverse range of skills and work to personalize treatment to meet people’s needs. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT). These treatments are “evidenced-based,” meaning they have been studied and demonstrated to effectively treat a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety and eating disorders.
I have practiced psychology for over 15 years and have worked in a variety of settings, including Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt, Johns Hopkins University, and Eating Recovery Center. I have a diverse range of skills and work to personalize treatment to meet people’s needs. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT). These treatments are “evidenced-based,” meaning they have been studied and demonstrated to effectively treat a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety and eating disorders.
(443) 383-4035 View (443) 383-4035
Photo of Mara Glover, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Mara Glover
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Maybe you are interested in learning skills to cope with specific behaviors or obsessive thoughts. Perhaps you are seeking validation and a non-judgmental listener. Or, you are not sure what you want from therapy, but you know something in your life does not feel right. If any of this resonates with you, I am here to help your struggles with anxiety, eating disorders, mild depression, life changes and self-esteem. I am confident we can work as a team to move your life toward a path that feels right to you, and help you feel in control of the present time and future.
Maybe you are interested in learning skills to cope with specific behaviors or obsessive thoughts. Perhaps you are seeking validation and a non-judgmental listener. Or, you are not sure what you want from therapy, but you know something in your life does not feel right. If any of this resonates with you, I am here to help your struggles with anxiety, eating disorders, mild depression, life changes and self-esteem. I am confident we can work as a team to move your life toward a path that feels right to you, and help you feel in control of the present time and future.
(301) 637-5249 View (301) 637-5249
Photo of Nicole K Albertson, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Nicole K Albertson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Waitlist for new clients
I have been practicing for over 15 years and see patients with a wide range of concerns and struggles. I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma, and related issues in adults and teens. I understand that it can be difficult to seek help; therefore, I highly value establishing safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, and allowing each patient a unique path to health and healing. I also work to collaborate with a treatment team, such as physicians and dietitians, when physical or medical issues need to be addressed.
I have been practicing for over 15 years and see patients with a wide range of concerns and struggles. I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma, and related issues in adults and teens. I understand that it can be difficult to seek help; therefore, I highly value establishing safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, and allowing each patient a unique path to health and healing. I also work to collaborate with a treatment team, such as physicians and dietitians, when physical or medical issues need to be addressed.
(301) 882-5056 View (301) 882-5056
Photo of Maurine K Kelly, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
(240) 242-9949 View (240) 242-9949
Photo of Laura Przybylek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Laura Przybylek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
I specialize in ADHD, pregnancy/postpartum difficulties, parenting stress, challenges associated with body image and eating disorders, as well as navigating complex health issues.
Welcome! I consider it a privilege to walk alongside another’s life journey. I am here to provide a warm, relaxed and compassionate space to explore your challenges and strengths. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD and pregnancy/postpartum issues. I have extensive experience working with teens and adults with ADHD and executive function difficulties. When treating ADHD, you NEED a therapist who wholeheartedly understands it and whose strategies are flexible to meet your specific needs. I value my authentic approach to connecting with others which leads to my clients feeling heard, understood, accepted and supported.
I specialize in ADHD, pregnancy/postpartum difficulties, parenting stress, challenges associated with body image and eating disorders, as well as navigating complex health issues.
Welcome! I consider it a privilege to walk alongside another’s life journey. I am here to provide a warm, relaxed and compassionate space to explore your challenges and strengths. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD and pregnancy/postpartum issues. I have extensive experience working with teens and adults with ADHD and executive function difficulties. When treating ADHD, you NEED a therapist who wholeheartedly understands it and whose strategies are flexible to meet your specific needs. I value my authentic approach to connecting with others which leads to my clients feeling heard, understood, accepted and supported.
(240) 759-2896 View (240) 759-2896
Photo of Mindful Haven Therapy Laura Valdes-Borsum, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Mindful Haven Therapy Laura Valdes-Borsum, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21703
Fluent in Spanish with education, training, and experience in therapy models such as CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I selectively integrate a variety of goal-oriented, solution-focused, and person-centered techniques into a uniquely individualized treatment approach for individuals, couples, and families. My multicultural clinical expertise includes treating individuals of all ages depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, gender identity, sexual identity, adjustment, anger management, addictions, personality disorders, and grief.
Fluent in Spanish with education, training, and experience in therapy models such as CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I selectively integrate a variety of goal-oriented, solution-focused, and person-centered techniques into a uniquely individualized treatment approach for individuals, couples, and families. My multicultural clinical expertise includes treating individuals of all ages depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, gender identity, sexual identity, adjustment, anger management, addictions, personality disorders, and grief.
(240) 991-2256 View (240) 991-2256
Photo of Rachel Flounlacker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Rachel Flounlacker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
I specialize in helping individuals to recover from anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.
I love working with teens and adults who feel exhausted from thinking so much about food and their body. Who wish they could just 'eat normally' but can't even remember what that feels like anymore. Or those who are worried about your teen who is struggling with an eating disorder. Whether you are seeking eating disorder therapy for yourself or a loved one, I can help.
I specialize in helping individuals to recover from anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.
I love working with teens and adults who feel exhausted from thinking so much about food and their body. Who wish they could just 'eat normally' but can't even remember what that feels like anymore. Or those who are worried about your teen who is struggling with an eating disorder. Whether you are seeking eating disorder therapy for yourself or a loved one, I can help.
(301) 691-4865 View (301) 691-4865

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Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.